Algeria Expels 12 French Diplomats: Le Figaro

Algerian authorities have decided to expel 12 French diplomats. This was reported by Le Figaro, citing French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrault.

"The Algerian authorities have asked our 12 employees to leave Algeria within 48 hours," the minister's statement is quoted by the publication. According to the report, these include members of the administrative and diplomatic staff associated with France's Ministry of the Interior.

The head of the foreign policy department added that Algeria is expelling the diplomats in response to the expulsion of three Algerian citizens from France for committing crimes. The French Foreign Minister stated that Algeria's action would not go unanswered.

Additionally, in late July 2024, Algerian authorities decided to immediately recall their ambassador from France, as Paris recognized Morocco's proposal to grant autonomy to Western Sahara as the only basis for conflict resolution. Algeria has long defended the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination and independence.

On April 6, 2025, after a meeting with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Barrault mentioned that France and Algeria intend to open a new chapter in their bilateral relations and resume cooperation after a prolonged crisis.